Cars and Coffee Raleigh: Exotic and Classic Car Shows

Get ready for a spectacular weekend of railroading excellence at the 9th Annual Raleigh Spring Train Show. Hosted by the Neuse River Valley Model Railroad Club, this highly anticipated event takes place on May 23 and 24, 2026, at the spacious Jim Graham Building located within the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. As one of the largest train shows in the Southeast, this gathering promises an immersive experience for hobbyists, families, and curious enthusiasts alike. Attendees will enjoy over 400 tables dedicated to model railroading and more than 12 incredible operating layouts spanning from G scale to Z scale, featuring everything from intricate classic designs to creative LEGO displays. In addition to the main exhibits, the event features the prestigious Craftsman Showcase, where experts present and judge high quality craftsman structures and rolling stock. Admission is just ten dollars and covers entry for both days, while children twelve and under are admitted for free with a paying adult. Gather your family for this memorable celebration of engineering and creativity. We look forward to seeing you there for a weekend full of innovation and fun.

Join us for the Southern Creatives Gift and Craft Market for an engaging day of shopping, creativity, and community engagement. This indoor market is conveniently located on the first floor near Macy's at Triangle Town Center, providing a comfortable and climate controlled environment for your shopping experience. Discover a vast array of unique, handmade goods produced by talented local artisans and small businesses. From intricate jewelry and cozy crochet items to handmade candles, bath products, and home decor, our vendors offer high quality treasures that you will not find in big box stores. You will also discover delicious gourmet sweets, party dips, wreaths, and custom wood items. Whether you are searching for the perfect thoughtful gift, looking to treat yourself, or simply want to browse one of a kind creations, this market is the premier destination. This event serves as a wonderful opportunity to support our local makers while connecting with neighbors. We invite you to bring your friends and family to explore these small businesses and enjoy an inspiring day of discovery. We look forward to seeing you there.

Experience the excitement of the 9th Annual Raleigh Spring Train Show hosted by the Neuse River Valley Model Railroad Club. Taking place on May 23 and 24, 2026, at the Jim Graham Building at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, this massive event is a must-see for hobbyists and families alike. As one of the largest train shows in the Southeast, the venue will be packed with over 400 tables dedicated to model railroading and more than 12 impressive operating layouts ranging from G to Z scales, including a captivating LEGO display for all ages to enjoy. In addition to the extensive layouts, guests can explore the Craftsman Showcase, which features intricate displays and expert judging of craftsmanship structures and rolling stock. Admission is just ten dollars for the entire weekend, and children twelve and under are admitted for free when accompanied by an adult. Whether you are a dedicated collector or simply looking for an engaging family activity, this show promises an unforgettable weekend of exploration. Secure your tickets today and join us for this celebration of locomotive history and model engineering excellence.

The Fine Arts League of Cary proudly presents the 16th Annual Wake County Teen Art Exhibition, a vibrant celebration of creativity showcasing over 100 works by talented student artists from across Wake County. On view May 6–27, 2026, at the Frankie G. Weems Gallery on the campus of Meredith College, this professionally curated exhibition highlights the exceptional achievements of young artists selected by their teachers. Join the community for a special public reception and awards ceremony on May 10, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 p.m., where $20,000 in prizes will be awarded to students and their schools. Sponsored by Cary Family Dental and supported by local arts organizations and Meredith College, the exhibition not only honors artistic excellence but also reinvests in school art programs, helping foster the next generation of creative thinkers. Now in its 16th year, this inspiring event underscores the importance of arts education while offering students a meaningful opportunity to exhibit their work in a gallery setting. All are welcome to attend and experience the creativity, imagination, and talent of Wake County’s young artists.

Experience the vibrant sounds of traditional folk music with PineCone, the Piedmont Council of Traditional Music. As a leading organization dedicated to preserving and promoting authentic performing arts, PineCone invites musicians of all skill levels to join their monthly jam sessions. These gatherings foster a welcoming environment where community members can connect through the shared joy of music. Whether you are an experienced player or just beginning your musical journey, these sessions provide the perfect space to learn, practice, and perform in an inclusive, group setting. The Old-Time Music Jam at Riparian Provision Company offers a lively atmosphere for participants to gather in a circle and play together. Meanwhile, the Beginner Bluegrass Jam at Harrys Guitar Shop serves as an excellent educational opportunity to master jam etiquette and fundamental techniques. Both events are completely free to attend and open to musicians of all ages. We encourage you to visit the official PineCone calendar to view their full schedule and find the session that best suits your needs. Come be part of the local music scene today.

Experience the joy of literacy and the beauty of nature combined with the May StoryWalk series across various Wake County Parks. This engaging program invites families to read a featured children book page by page as they navigate scenic walking trails. It is a fantastic way to encourage outdoor exercise while fostering a love for reading in children of all ages. Each location offers a unique story tailored for the season and the setting of the park. From the vibrant illustrations in I Love Strawberries at Beech Bluff to the reflective themes of Drawn Together at Oak View, there is a fresh adventure waiting at every corner. Visitors can explore these installations throughout the entire month of May at locations including Crowder, Harris Lake, Yates Mill, and Sandy Pines. We encourage everyone to lace up their walking shoes, bring the family along, and immerse themselves in these literary adventures set against the backdrop of our stunning local parks. Please visit our park websites to check specific park hours and map your route for this delightful outdoor experience. We look forward to seeing you out on the trails soon.

Experience the joy of literacy and the beauty of nature combined with the May StoryWalk series across various Wake County Parks. This engaging program invites families to read a featured children book page by page as they navigate scenic walking trails. It is a fantastic way to encourage outdoor exercise while fostering a love for reading in children of all ages. Each location offers a unique story tailored for the season and the setting of the park. From the vibrant illustrations in I Love Strawberries at Beech Bluff to the reflective themes of Drawn Together at Oak View, there is a fresh adventure waiting at every corner. Visitors can explore these installations throughout the entire month of May at locations including Crowder, Harris Lake, Yates Mill, and Sandy Pines. We encourage everyone to lace up their walking shoes, bring the family along, and immerse themselves in these literary adventures set against the backdrop of our stunning local parks. Please visit our park websites to check specific park hours and map your route for this delightful outdoor experience. We look forward to seeing you out on the trails soon.

Looking for the perfect destination to entertain your children regardless of the weather? Woodplay of the Carolinas offers an ideal indoor environment where kids can burn off energy and explore. Whether it is a rainy, cold, or hot day, our expansive party room serves as the ultimate gathering spot for families seeking active, engaging play. From high energy playsets to fun trampolines, there is something for every child to enjoy in a safe and welcoming setting. We provide a dedicated toddler area stocked with age appropriate equipment, ensuring that even our youngest guests have a fantastic time. We invite you to join us on weekdays between 10am and 2pm for unstructured open play sessions. It is a wonderful opportunity for mommy and me meet ups or simply allowing your little ones to socialize and develop their motor skills. We operate on a drop in basis and registration is not strictly required, though you may sign your waiver online ahead of time for a smoother arrival. Please check our website for the latest updates on holiday closures or special camps. We look forward to seeing your family soon for a day of active fun.

Bring your little ones to Crowder County Park for an enchanting morning of storytelling and creativity. Designed specifically for children aged six and under, the Tiny Tots program invites families to gather for an engaging reading session followed by a hands-on craft activity. This interactive experience allows children to express their artistic side while enjoying delightful tales in a beautiful outdoor setting. It is a wonderful opportunity for young minds to develop early literacy skills while socializing with other children in the community. Located at the Cardinal Shelter, the event provides a welcoming environment for parents and guardians to participate alongside their children. Adult accompaniment is required for all attendees, ensuring a safe and supportive experience for everyone involved. Space for this popular program is limited, so please ensure you register in advance to secure your spot. Do not miss this chance to create lasting memories with your child in the heart of nature. Visit the official Crowder County Park website today to complete your registration and explore other upcoming family friendly activities held throughout the season.